2014 Autumn Classic Nominations Released

Nominations for the 2014 Group 2 Autumn Classic (1800m) have been released, with a current list of eleven set to line up for race 3 at Caulfield on Saturday, including Countersnip.

Countersnip is aiming for maiden success at Group level in the 2014 Autumn Classic. Photo: Race Horse Photos Australia

Countersnip was left in the spelling paddock for much of the 2013 Spring Carnival, however has returned to the track in great form; winning one event and placing in three others, including the Listed Tasmanian Guineas (1600m) on December 31st.

Having gained noticeable attention ahead of the Group 2 Autumn Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield on February 8th, the Stratum gelding was unable to match the late charge of eventual winner Thunder Fantasy, finishing a disappointing fifth.

Despite the less-than-ideal maiden tilt at a group level event, trainer Mick Price said the talented three-year-old will be better for the run and is confident of finding success at a high level in the Autumn Classic.

Also included in nominations for the 2014 Autumn Classic is Chris Waller-trained Vilanova.

Having started his career in his homeland New Zealand, Vilanova recorded a somewhat shaky start when first transferred to the care of Waller early last year, however did manage to finish runner-up in both the Group 2 Bollinger Champagne Classic (1200m) and Group 2 BRC Sires’ Produce Stakes (1350m) in Queensland.

Trainer Michael Kent looks set to dominate the final field for the 2014 Autumn Classic, with Accord, Mysonharry and Pyrrolic all included in nominations.

Having opened his racing career with an impressive first-up victory in the SKM Recycling Plate (1600m) in October, the Dubawi colt was widely expected to cause serious problems to talented field of the Autumn Stakes two weeks ago, however was unable to recover from a poor jump and finished well off the pace in last.

Kent is confident in the abilities of the largely un-trialled three-year-old, and will aim Accord at a campaign of Group level events.

Claiming one win from seven starts, relatively unheralded Mysonharry will be making his Group-level debut in the 2014 Autumn Classic. Kent has a high opinion of the son of Myboycharlie and revealed he is quietly confident for Saturday.

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